I admit I am not the biggest fan of the New Year. I have a bit of neoannophobia, which is the fear of the new year. However, it doesn't stop me from moving forward. My words for the year are "breathe and abide". I am using the abide definition "to endure without yielding; to withstand". I don't make New Year's resolutions, I use words instead. Last year I had "just be".

I was in shutdown pretty deep in January of last year when the idea for my book came to me. Five weeks later, my first draft was finished. I had no plans to write a book last year. But it was a nice surprise and a goal to accomplish. My first grandchild was born on March 8th, which was also the day I was accepted into my dream Ph.D. program. Overall, it's been a great year.

If you are struggling with shutdown this time of year as I was, maybe now would be a good time to check out my book. Cozy up with a warm blanket, and your favorite beverage, and make it a no-demand day.

Wishing you all a great year!

If I Can Just Get Through This: A Therapist's Journey and Guidance through Autistic Shutdown and its Triggers